HL Deb 29 October 2003 vol 654 cc51-2WA
Lord Mackenzie of Culkein

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in light of the difficulties experienced in the removal of cargo from the "Jambo", a review of policy will be undertaken in relation to the passage of vessels carrying hazardous cargoes through the waters of the Minch. [HL5081]

Lord Davies of Oldham

There is a continuing right of passage through the Minch and this has to be maintained under international law.

In August 2002, the department began undertaking a programme of vessel traffic surveys at sites around the UK that are environmentally sensitive and which may be at risk from shipping. The department proposes to undertake a comprehensive radar survey of vessels using the Minch early next year. This will allow a full assessment of existing traffic patterns and allow a review of the risks associated with shipping in the Minch.

In the longer term, amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention agreed by the International Maritime Organization in 2002 will make it a requirement, with effect from 31 December 2004, for ships over 500 gross tonnes to carry automated identification systems. Coastal states wishing to install shore-based equipment will be able to monitor shipping around their coasts. For example, this will enable the UK to continuously monitor and record ship movements in the Minch and elsewhere.

In partnership with the General Lighthouse Authority, the Government are participating in a test programme for transmitting navigational information for display on the electronic charts now used by many ships. The Northern Lighthouse Board has installed appropriate shore-based equipment in the Minch as part of this test programme.